DieHardDevilhttp://dieharddevil.comBuilding a stronger, louder and more unified Sun Devil Nation. Are you a DieHardDevil? Prove It.en-USThu, 24 May 2018 13:33:43 PDThourly1DiehardDevilhttps://feedburner.google.comSubscribe with My Yahoo!Subscribe with BloglinesSubscribe with NetvibesSubscribe with PageflakesSubscribe with The Free DictionarySubscribe with Bitty BrowserSubscribe with Podcast ReadySubscribe with Daily RotationSun Devil Football: Aztecs Plan to Run Over Arizona State on Frank Kush’s Special Nighthttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/DiehardDevil/~3/i6aUQZo5_Ug/HOME PAGEAztecsFrank KushFrank Kush FieldSDSUMike HowellFri, 08 Sep 2017 10:59:58 PDThttp://dieharddevil.com/?post_type=articles&p=39342Sun Devil Football: Aztecs Plan to Run Over Arizona State on Frank Kush’s Special Night

Several College Football pundits favor San Diego State Saturday night in Tempe. In fact Mark Zeigler of the San Diego Union Tribune calls this a, “Can’t Lose” game, for the two-time defending Mountain West champions.

The San Diego State Aztecs are the two-time defending Mountain West Champions

After a comfortable 38-17 win over UC Davis last week, a game the Aztecs led 38-3 through three quarters, Head Coach Rocky Long’s program ranks 7th Nationally in the run game.

In all SDSU stacked up 465 offensive yards. You could consider the talent gap between SDSU and UC Davis to be similar to that between ASU and their week #1 opponent, New Mexico State, which ended in a 37-31 victory.

Standout SDSU Senior RB, Rashadd Penny

NOTEWORTHY

In games that the Aztecs have reached 200 yards rushing, they have won 33 straight games.

San Diego State is 9-2 in its last 11 true road games.

Senior running back Rashaad Penny, last weeks Mountain West Player of the Week, carried 21 times for 197 yards and two touchdowns. It was his sixth career 100-yard rushing game, and his 9.4 yards per rush is the highest by any FBS player in the nation.

SDSU Defense

Last Saturday, the Aztec defense forced three turnovers (including two interceptions) and recorded eight tackles for loss.

Since the beginning of the 2015 campaign, San Diego State leads the nation in interceptions with 51 (Utah is second with 41). The Aztecs are tied with Utah for the most turnovers forced in the time span (66).

Here’s a look at the highlights from the Aztecs opening game along with post-game player comments.

This isn’t just another football game for Arizona State.

This game is about honoring legendary Coach Frank Kush, who led ASU to national prominence in the late 1950’s to the late 70’s.

This one’s about respecting Frank Kush Field with nothing short of a hard-fought, tougher than nails, by-whatever-means-necessary VICTORY. Anything less for ASU Football is unacceptable.

THE GREATEST SUN DEVIL – Coach Frank Kush

DieHard Bonus

Arizona State first squared off with San Diego State on October 19th 1951, the year that Ben Hogan had won the15th Masters Golf Tournament and the NY Yankees welcomed rookie, Mickey Mantle. That was 65 years, 10 months, and 21 days ago.

Official 1951 Football Program: San Diego State vs Arizona State

HAPPENING NOW at DieHard-Apparel.com /// Free Shipping to your door

Hungry for a little more insight into the upcoming battle with the Aztecs? Hear directly from SDSU Head Coach, Rocky Long, as he previews Arizona State.

]]><p><a rel="nofollow" href="http://dieharddevil.com/articles/sun-devil-football-aztecs-plan-to-run-over-arizona-state-on-frank-kushs-special-night/">Sun Devil Football: Aztecs Plan to Run Over Arizona State on Frank Kush&#8217;s Special Night</a></p>
<p>Several College Football pundits favor San Diego State Saturday night in Tempe. In fact Mark Zeigler of the San Diego Union Tribune calls this a, &#8220;Can&#8217;t Lose&#8221; game, for the two-time defending Mountain West champions. &#160; &#160; After a comfortable 38-17 win over UC Davis last week, a game the Aztecs led 38-3 through three [&#8230;]</p>
<p><a rel="nofollow" href="http://dieharddevil.com">DieHardDevil</a></p>http://dieharddevil.com/articles/sun-devil-football-aztecs-plan-to-run-over-arizona-state-on-frank-kushs-special-night/feed/0http://dieharddevil.com/articles/sun-devil-football-aztecs-plan-to-run-over-arizona-state-on-frank-kushs-special-night/2017 Sun Devil Football: Game #1 Starters Releasedhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/DiehardDevil/~3/T3n8-trBfbE/HOME PAGETEAMdepth chartstartersDieHardDevil.comTue, 29 Aug 2017 21:07:25 PDThttp://dieharddevil.com/?post_type=articles&p=392122017 Sun Devil Football: Game #1 Starters Released

]]><p><a rel="nofollow" href="http://dieharddevil.com/articles/asu-football-heres-whats-at-stake-thursday-night-vs-new-mexico-state/">ASU Football: Here&#8217;s What&#8217;s At Stake Thursday Night vs New Mexico State</a></p>
<p>A Sun Devil Victory against New Mexico State would&#8230; Improve ASU to 76-27-2 on Opening Day in history and 58-15-1 on Opening Day at home. 2. Be ASU&#8217;s 16th consecutive Opening Day win when the game is at Sun Devil Stadium. 3. Be the 19th straight victory in a home opener for the Sun Devils, [&#8230;]</p>
<p><a rel="nofollow" href="http://dieharddevil.com">DieHardDevil</a></p>http://dieharddevil.com/articles/asu-football-heres-whats-at-stake-thursday-night-vs-new-mexico-state/feed/0http://dieharddevil.com/articles/asu-football-heres-whats-at-stake-thursday-night-vs-new-mexico-state/Shirtless & Unstoppable: The Story Behind This DieHard Sun Devil’s Wild Ride at ASUhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/DiehardDevil/~3/dVxXzk8wCBY/HOME PAGESUN DEVIL NATION942 CrewBen HavensCamp FargoCurtain of Distractiongame ballInfernonew york timesNick GranilloPatrick CarlsonQuinton BrownshirtlessShirtless QMike HowellSun, 20 Aug 2017 11:46:59 PDThttp://dieharddevil.com/?post_type=articles&p=38774Shirtless & Unstoppable: The Story Behind This DieHard Sun Devil’s Wild Ride at ASU

All my life I have been a huge fan of ASU and dreamed about attending ASU

Ahhh, to be in college again.Sun Devil Nation includes many hardcore fans and supporters. Each lives and breathes Maroon & Gold, each proving it their own way.

One fan in particular that we know you’ve seen on television or on the Sun Devil Stadium jumbotron (the old one, wink) is a character simply known as “Shirtless Q.” Keep this on the down low- his legal name is Quinton Brown.

Over the past three years, the Sun Devil senior has quietly made a name for himself as a true DieHard. If you’re like us, you’ve wanted to learn about his story.

It’s Shirtless Q in the Flesh

Before attending ASU, did you have any Sun Devil connections?

Forks Up

I grew up in Idaho, but both of my parents grew up in Phoenix as Sun Devil fans. In Idaho, my brother played football against Taylor Kelly in High School who happened to be in the same grade. I always got to see them play against each other. I eventually went to high school with Taylor’s youngest sister, Madi, and became friends with her as well.

How did the whole “shirtless” thing start?

The shirtless thing started at a young age. I’ve never really liked wearing a shirt. When going to sporting events growing up, I always opted towards body paint instead of a shirt. Then when I got my pitchfork tattoo I decided I didn’t need the paint anymore.

Have you ever worn a t-shirt during an ASU game?

There have been a few situations during away games and Pac-12 tournament games where security has told me I have to wear a shirt.

Can you describe your love for the Sun Devils?

My love for the Sun Devils is hard to describe. All my life I have been a huge fan of ASU and dreamed about attending ASU. Going into the final year of my undergraduate degree, I can honestly say it has been greater than I could have ever imagined.

From the athletes that everyone cheers for, to the dining hall workers that always seem to have a smile on their face, I love everything about ASU.

I cannot even begin to describe how grateful I am for the opportunities that the university and Sun Devil Athletics has given me. From being a part of the first (and only so far) student section to be featured live on the set of SportsCenter, to being on College Gameday before the Final Four this year, to the community service and lives I have gotten to touch during Sun Devil Caravans, to the love and support I get from other Sun Devils around the country and on social media, it is amazing what Arizona State has done for me.

What are the top three ASU Football games you’ve attended and why?

1) ASU at USC, 2014: One of the greatest moments in ASU history, the Jael Mary, happened in the end zone where so many ASU fans and myself were standing.

2) ASU vs UA, 2015 Territorial Cup: Who doesn’t love beating UofA, right? It was great to beat the hell out of them physically as well as on the scoreboard. Plus, I got the game ball from Berco after the game.

942 CREW on the front-page of the New York Times, Feb. 14, 2015

3) ASU vs Notre Dame, 2014: This is the only Top-10 matchup I’ve seen in person and it was one of the biggest wins in ASU history. It was great seeing someone I knew, grew up with, and looked up to all my life, Taylor Kelly, take down a college football blue-blood.

Do you have one particular fan experience that stands out above all others?

One particular experience that stands out above all others would be beating UofA in basketball my freshman year. First, I had the opportunity to be in the front-row alongside Mike Bercovici, DJ Foster, and Jordan Simone and ended up storming the court with them.

Also, one of the Curtain of Distraction skits I was in that night ended up as a story on the front page of the New York Times. The picture of me and the football guys along with a copy of that New York Times will be things that I will have hanging in my house forever.

Feb. 7, 2015 – Arizona State Basketball vs Arizona. (From L to R) Shirtless Q, Mike Bercovici, Jordan Simone, Ellis Jefferson, and D.J.Foster. The Sun Devils upset the No. 6 Wildcats in the final seconds of the game in Tempe.

Have you personally started any new student traditions?

One tradition I have been a part of starting is 942 Crew’s Game of the Week, a concept we came up with to drive attendance at one specific sporting event each week. We determine what we feel is the most important game for the overall success of our athletic program.

We hope to have a Game of the Week for every ASU team from football all the way to our triathlon team. Another new tradition I have been a part of is bringing the Curtain of Distraction to women’s basketball.

DieHard Proof

Shirtless Q & Co. are already proving it. At Sun Devil Soccer’s opening match on Friday, the first game of ASU’s 2017-2018 Athletics campaign, 1,070 fans turned out to set a home-opener attendance record. Half of the crowd was made up of loud Sun Devil Undergrads.

Sun Devil Soccer’s home-opener against Ohio State set a new attendance record. Unfortunately, ASU lost the Buckeyes 2-1 OT.

Have there been any new developments with the 942 Crew?

The biggest development with 942 Crew is just the bigger role we are getting within the athletic department. We began as the brainchild of former basketball coach, Herb Sendek, and now we are seen as a huge part of the department and the university as a whole.

One great example of this is our role at the Infernofest/Welcome Concert where we teach freshman and other students the cheers and traditions of Arizona State.

Does the 942 Crew have a Camp Fargo set up this year?

Because student ticketing is changing once again I do not know how much it will affect Camp Fargo. What I do know for sure is 942, as well as other passionate fans, will be out there this coming year at Camp Fargo.

The majority of the people who have inspired me have been athletes like Pat Tillman.

I feel Camp Fargo has become a great tradition at ASU and a great way to bring fans and athletes together who may not have otherwise met. It has been a great bonding experience and has given non-942 Crew students a chance to find out a little more about what we do. This has even led to many new students stepping up and joining the executive board.

What is your prediction for this upcoming season?

I expect that we will have a solid team this year that will be able to go toe-to-toe with the top-rated teams on our schedule. We will be deeper and more experienced on both sides of the ball which is always a good thing. The one thing I know for sure is that our running attack will keep defensive coordinators up at night.

What are you working on now, and in what field would you like to pursue a career?

Growing up I was very injury-prone so I hope to give back to the athletes of the future like my physical therapists and personal trainers did for me.

At this point, I am finishing up my degree in Exercise and Wellness and looking into postgraduate programs across the country as well as here at ASU. I hope to one day open up my own physical therapy and sports performance center where I can work with athletes of all ages to further their careers.

In terms of what is next for my shirtlessness, I really don’t know for sure. I have had people joke with me that I should start using my chest as a marketing tool and get companies to pay for advertising. I feel like I won’t know what is next until it happens.

Has there been anyone who has inspired you, and how do you plan to take your shirtless game to a new level this year?

COLLEGE, Shirtless Q-style

The majority of the people who have inspired me have been athletes like Pat Tillman and Taylor Kelly, as well as older members of the 942 Crew such as Nick Granillo, Patrick Carlson, and Ben Havens who took me under their wing from the beginning.

Do you have a vision for what ASU’s student section could become?

Based on what the 942 Crew Executive Board has done in the five years that it has been around, I see a bright future for ASU’s student section.

Since I have been here, nearly every student attendance record has been broken for each sport at least once.

One example of the effect 942 Crew has had is breaking the season attendance record for men’s basketball last year despite it being a down year. Also seven of our sixteen home games occurred during breaks in classes (one on Thanksgiving, five during Winter Break, and one during Spring Break).

If the student presence continues to grow, and all of our teams get better/stay great, our athletic department could be one of the best in the nation across the board.

Follow @ShirtlessQ on Twitter Now!

So DieHard has just one question for Sun Devil fans. Who’s next?

Happening now, Sun Devil! – Spend $30 or more at DieHard-Apparel.com and take 30% Off your whole order #ForksUp

]]><p><a rel="nofollow" href="http://dieharddevil.com/articles/shirtless-a-diehard-sun-devil-fans-wild-ride-in-tempe/">Shirtless &#038; Unstoppable: The Story Behind This DieHard Sun Devil&#8217;s Wild Ride at ASU</a></p>
<p>Ahhh, to be in college again. Sun Devil Nation includes many hardcore fans and supporters. Each lives and breathes Maroon &#38; Gold, each proving it their own way. One fan in particular that we know you&#8217;ve seen on television or on the Sun Devil Stadium jumbotron (the old one, wink) is a character simply known as [&#8230;]</p>
<p><a rel="nofollow" href="http://dieharddevil.com">DieHardDevil</a></p>http://dieharddevil.com/articles/shirtless-a-diehard-sun-devil-fans-wild-ride-in-tempe/feed/0http://dieharddevil.com/articles/shirtless-a-diehard-sun-devil-fans-wild-ride-in-tempe/PROVING IT: Sun Devil Young Professionals Set New Standard for DieHard Fanshttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/DiehardDevil/~3/b9RkiA88Gi8/HOME PAGESUN DEVIL NATIONDEVILS BALLfund raisingNicole Almond Andersonnicole andersonPhilanthropySun Devil ClubSun Devil Club Young ProfessionalsDieHardDevil.comSun, 13 Aug 2017 09:28:29 PDThttp://dieharddevil.com/?post_type=articles&p=38756PROVING IT: Sun Devil Young Professionals Set New Standard for DieHard Fans

Every one of us who consider ourselves proud members of Sun Devil Nation wants ASU Football & Athletics to excel at the highest level and win championships. However, sometimes we feel unnecessarily powerless in advancing that cause because there is so much we can do as fans. If you want to help ASU in the arms race that is college athletics, read on.

The Sun Devil Club Young Professionals Group is an up and coming force in the effort to galvanize more support from like-minded fans. Members gain behind-the-scenes access to ASU Football along with joining a network of DieHard Fans who want to prove their support for their Devils.

The Annual Devils Ball is thrown by the Sun Devil Club Young Professionals

The group is now recruiting members between 21-40 years old to advance ASU Athletics through philanthropy and collaborative engagement. Members are showing the kind of leadership by example that is integral to consistently successful Division 1 Football & Athletics programs.

The SDC YPG, for short, offers networking opportunities and several unique, fun, and engaging events year round, some of which include the annual Devils’ Ball in May, an annual golf tournament, and big home-game tailgates.

The current president of the Sun Devil Club Young Professionals Group is two-time alumnus Nicole Almond Anderson ’04, MNpS ’09. Born and raised a Sun Devil, Almond Anderson was an active member on campus and a die-hard fan of ASU Athletics – even becoming ASU’s Pac-12 Super Fan in 2012.

“In the years following graduation, I realized I missed the camaraderie of cheering in the student section and having access to networking events and meeting new Sun Devils,” she said.

As an example of their access, the YPG had a VIP viewing tent arranged at last Saturday’s Camp Tontozona scrimmage. This week they had a private tour of ASU’s new football facilities. Periodically, Sun Devil Coaches will join their meetings to speak about progress and developments within the program.

Camp Tontozona

We at DieHard consider opportunities like this to be part and parcel of being a Sun Devil. National championship programs require national championship fan bases.

As we list some of the benefits enjoyed by members of the Young Professionals Group, it’s good to remember that Sun Devils like them are in it because of their the love and passion for our ASU. The perks are just the icing on the cake. Some examples:

• Behind-the-scenes access to Sun Devil Athletics, including tours and interaction with coaches and student-athletes

• Networking with YPG members at events, tailgates, and other social gatherings

• Two (2) tickets to the Coors Light Tailgate for all Sun Devil home football games with food and an open bar. For members who have given $300 or more in the previous fiscal year. Members can pay retroactively to reach the $300 minimum.

• One (1) ticket to the Devils’ Ball in May, another all-inclusive event to celebrate the accomplishments of ASU Athletics. For members who have given just $75 or more prior to the Devils’ Ball. Members can pay retroactively to reach the $75 minimum.

• Access to Sun Devil Club Gold Level benefits (based on the recruitment of new members)

• Direct access to the Sun Devil Club staff along with interactions with the Sun Devil Club Board

“After being invited to join the YPG and learning about the group’s goals and initiatives to support Sun Devil athletes, I knew the group would be the right fit for me,” said Almond Anderson. “Now over four years later, the group is stronger than ever with a dedicated alumni, fans, and the next generation of young philanthropists.”

“Giving back as a volunteer and annual donor is important to me. ASU gave me so much as a student, this is my way to continue to help support my alma mater,” she added.

So we have one simple question for YOU? Do you want to lead by example and prove your love and passion for Sun Devil Football & Athletics?

Then you’re home.

Tax deductible membership dues are only $300 annually, or $25/month.

Email Keith Flyer if you believe in this cause and are able to do a little more as a fan. Keith will answer any questions you may have and hopefully bring you into this great organization.

]]><p><a rel="nofollow" href="http://dieharddevil.com/articles/proving-sun-devil-young-professionals-set-new-standard-diehard-fans/">PROVING IT: Sun Devil Young Professionals Set New Standard for DieHard Fans</a></p>
<p> Every one of us who consider ourselves proud members of Sun Devil Nation wants ASU Football &#38; Athletics to excel at the highest level and win championships. However, sometimes we feel unnecessarily powerless in advancing that cause because there is so much we can do as fans. If you want to help ASU in [&#8230;]</p>
<p><a rel="nofollow" href="http://dieharddevil.com">DieHardDevil</a></p>http://dieharddevil.com/articles/proving-sun-devil-young-professionals-set-new-standard-diehard-fans/feed/0http://dieharddevil.com/articles/proving-sun-devil-young-professionals-set-new-standard-diehard-fans/Three Sun Devil Football Student-Athletes Earn Academic Recognition By The Valley Of The Sun Chapter Of The NFFhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/DiehardDevil/~3/6Ihd7hozOC4/HOME PAGESUN DEVIL NATIONTEAMDieHardDevil.comWed, 22 Feb 2017 11:56:42 PSThttp://dieharddevil.com/?post_type=articles&p=38660Three Sun Devil Football Student-Athletes Earn Academic Recognition By The Valley Of The Sun Chapter Of The NFF

TEMPE, Arizona—Three Arizona State University football student-athletes will be honored at the 36th Annual Scholar Athlete Awards Banquet hosted by the Valley of the Sun Chapter of the National Football Foundation on April 8.

Sun Devil Laiu Moeakiola

Sun Devil football student-athletes Matt Haack, Fred Gammage and Laiu Moeakiola will be honored by the Valley of the Sun Chapter of the National Football Foundation for their excellence in academics.

Sun Devil Matt Haack

The three will be a part of a group of 50 student-athletes representing Northern and Central Arizona’s 186 high schools, three universities, and five junior colleges. Each of the honorees will receive a scholarship to further their education. Fiesta Bowl Charities helps underwrite the scholarship program, which has benefitted over 1,100 football student-athletes since 1986.

Gammage, a wide receiver, was one of two student-athletes in the Pac-12 (both from ASU) to earn a 4.0 grade-point average in the fall semester, and joined Haack in earning first-team Pac-12 All-Academic honors. Haack was named second-team All-Pac-12 this past season as a punter.

Moeakiola, a linebacker, was Honorable Mention Pac-12 All-Academic.

Also that evening, former ASU Assistant Athletics Director of Football Operations and High School Relations John Wrenn will receive the Frank Kush Lifetime Achievement Award for his dedication and service to the game and its student-athletes. Wrenn spent 23 years as a High School Head Coach in Illinois and Arizona before joining the Arizona State football staff in 2006.

The Arizona STATE Tee – Available today at DieHard-Apparel.com #ForksUp

]]><p><a rel="nofollow" href="http://dieharddevil.com/articles/three-sun-devil-football-student-athletes-earn-academic-recognition-valley-sun-chapter-nff/">Three Sun Devil Football Student-Athletes Earn Academic Recognition By The Valley Of The Sun Chapter Of The NFF</a></p>
<p>TEMPE, Arizona—Three Arizona State University football student-athletes will be honored at the 36th Annual Scholar Athlete Awards Banquet hosted by the Valley of the Sun Chapter of the National Football Foundation on April 8. &#160; &#160; Sun Devil football student-athletes Matt Haack, Fred Gammage and Laiu Moeakiola will be honored by the Valley of the [&#8230;]</p>
<p><a rel="nofollow" href="http://dieharddevil.com">DieHardDevil</a></p>http://dieharddevil.com/articles/three-sun-devil-football-student-athletes-earn-academic-recognition-valley-sun-chapter-nff/feed/0http://dieharddevil.com/articles/three-sun-devil-football-student-athletes-earn-academic-recognition-valley-sun-chapter-nff/ASU Baseball: Double Header Equals Double Wins for the Sun Devils on Opening Dayhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/DiehardDevil/~3/0qF7w9dnMa0/HOME PAGEAndrew SnowBaseballCarter AldreteChaz MontoyaEli LingosGage CanningJake GodfreyLyle LinMyles DensonNorthwesternSam FerriZach McPheeZawadaMark DunsmoreFri, 17 Feb 2017 23:01:30 PSThttp://dieharddevil.com/?post_type=articles&p=38649ASU Baseball: Double Header Equals Double Wins for the Sun Devils on Opening Day

The Sun Devil baseball team opened in 2017 season by sweeping a double header against Northwestern Friday.

Junior Eli Lingos threw 6.2 shutout innings and earned the win as the Devils held on to beat the Wildcats 3-1 in the season opener. In the first inning, freshman Lyle Lin knocked a single up the middle for the Devils first hit of the season, and the first hit of Lin’s career. He added a two-run double in the fourth, becoming the first true freshman with a multi-hit game in the season opener since Zach McPhee in 2009.

In the seventh inning, junior Andrew Snow knocked in sophomore Gage Canning, pushing the lead to 3-0.

Five true freshman got in to the first game of the double header: Lin, Sam Ferri, Carter Aldrete, Myles Denson, and Chaz Montoya.

In the second game of the double header, the Sun Devils came back from a 3-run deficit to win on a walk-off single from senior Sebastian Zawada. Junior Ryan Hingst got the start, but gave up a run in the first inning and two more in the third. In the bottom of the 5th, Andrew Snow got the Devils on the board by knocking in Gage Canning on a sacrifice fly. Snow scored on a single from junior Ryan Lillard in the 7th to make the score 3-2.

Canning and Snow struck again in the 9th to tie the game at 3, when Canning doubled to lead-off and then scored on Snow’s single. Zawada later singled to score Andrew Snow to complete the sweep of the Opening Day double header. Junior Jake Godfrey was credited with the win.

The final game of the series is scheduled for Saturday at 1:00 pm MST at Phoenix Municipal Stadium, weather permitting.

Sun Devil baseball opens their 2017 season tonight at Phoenix Muni against Northwestern. While Tracy Smith’s team looks to build on their 36-23 record from last season, we’re looking at five Devils to keep an eye on this season.

A freshman from San Mateo, CA (Hunter Bishop) attended the same school that produced Sun Devil great Barry Bonds

Perfectgame.org named Shaps, a junior, to their preseason All-Conference team. In 212 at-bats in 2016, Shaps hit .321, second best on the team—with 2 homeruns, 27 RBI, and 29 runs scored. As a freshman, he also pitched in 7 games, striking out 11 and allowing a paltry .063 batting average.

Hunter Bishop, OF

A freshman from San Mateo, CA he attended the same school that produced Sun Devil great Barry Bonds, along with former USC football coach John Robinson, NFL Hall of Famer Lynn Swann, and some guy named Tom Brady. As a senior at Serra High School, Bishop hit .426 with 10 stolen bases and didn’t commit an error in the field in his 32 games played.

Sun Devil Pitcher, Connor Higgins

Connor Higgins, LHP

The big sophomore (6’5”, 240 lbs) only saw action in 13 innings as a freshman last season, but struck out 10 in 12.2 innings, and was named the 35th best MLB prospect in his class. As a senior at Parkland High School (Orefield, Pa.), he didn’t allow an earned run all season.

Carter Aldrete, INF

Perfectgame.org had him rated as the 12th best high school player in California and #93 overall nationwide, and was a 37th round draft pick of the Red Sox last summer. Aldrete’s father, Rich, and his Uncle Mike both played for the San Francisco Giants, and his sister Annie currently plays softball at Cal.

DieHard-Apparel, Exclusively for Sun Devils

DieHardBonus

]]><p><a rel="nofollow" href="http://dieharddevil.com/articles/first-pitch-5-sun-devil-baseball-ers-to-watch-starting-tonight/">FIRST PITCH: 5 Sun Devil Baseball-ers to Watch Starting Tonight</a></p>
<p>Sun Devil baseball opens their 2017 season tonight at Phoenix Muni against Northwestern. While Tracy Smith’s team looks to build on their 36-23 record from last season, we’re looking at five Devils to keep an eye on this season. Eder Erives, RHP The senior finished 2016 with a 6-2 record, 10 saves, and 2.95 ERA, [&#8230;]</p>
<p><a rel="nofollow" href="http://dieharddevil.com">DieHardDevil</a></p>http://dieharddevil.com/articles/first-pitch-5-sun-devil-baseball-ers-to-watch-starting-tonight/feed/0http://dieharddevil.com/articles/first-pitch-5-sun-devil-baseball-ers-to-watch-starting-tonight/Veteran College Defensive Coordinator and 39-Year College Coach Phil Bennett Joins ASU In Same Rolehttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/DiehardDevil/~3/rx_dyh8mF2Q/HOME PAGETEAMBaylorPhil BennettDieHardDevil.comWed, 11 Jan 2017 12:07:18 PSThttp://dieharddevil.com/?post_type=articles&p=38610Veteran College Defensive Coordinator and 39-Year College Coach Phil Bennett Joins ASU In Same Role

TEMPE, Ariz.—Phil Bennett, one of the most experienced defensive coordinators in college football today, joins Head Coach Todd Graham’s coaching staff as defensive coordinator, Graham announced Wednesday.

Bennett brings nearly 40 years of coaching experience to the Tempe campus, including six seasons as the head coach at SMU (2002-2007) and eight stints as defensive coordinator at eight different schools. Throughout his career, Bennett has overseen the growth of 54 different players that have gone on to NFL careers.ASU’s appointment as defensive coordinator is his ninth.

“Phil Bennett is a 39-year coaching veteran who brings a wealth of defensive knowledge to our staff,” says Graham. “He’s been a defensive coordinator at eight schools, including Baylor, Pittsburgh, Kansas State, TCU, Texas A&M, LSU, Purdue and Iowa State. He was the head coach at SMU for six seasons, so he knows first-hand what it takes to run a program. With that amount of experience in conferences such as the SEC, the Big 12, the Big Ten and the Big East he has had to game plan to defend every offense imaginable. He has been associated with successful defenses everywhere he’s been. We are very fortunate to have him bring his level of experience to the Sun Devil program.”

Phil Bennett as Defensive Coordinator at Baylor

“I’ve known Todd Graham for a long time and I love his passion for the game of football,” says Bennett. “It’s like any situation in that I think I can help get ASU back to championship football. I’ve watched them play and I know ASU is not far away. The program has great support from its administration and fan base. I’m very excited to begin this part of my life.”

From 2011 through 2016 Bennett directed the defense at Baylor that was a catalyst to the Bears 57 wins in that six-year span, including Big 12 titles in 2013 and 2014. Ten defensive players earned All-Big 12 honors for BU’s 2015 squad that finished 10-3 and Russell Athletic Bowl champions, led by first-team All-American Andrew Billings and NFL draftee Xavien Howard (Dolphins). Billings was named Co-Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year and drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals.

The improved 2013 Baylor defense stepped up as a catalyst for the march to BU’s first Big 12 championship. The Bears led the nation in three-and-outs (6.38 per game) and finished ninth in yards allowed per-play (4.75). It also led the Big 12 in two other categories, lowest completion percentage (48.2 percent) and fourth down conversions (.250).

Bennett’s 2013 defense had seven players earn All-Big 12 honors, including All-American safety and NFL Draft pick Ahmad Dixon (Cowboys). Cornerback Demetri Goodson was also an NFL Draft selection (Packers). Bennett was named a finalist for 2013 Defensive Coordinator of the Year by FootballScoop.

Baylor’s 2012 defense, which featured five All-Big 12 honorees, played a huge role in BU winning five of its final six games. Over the final five regular-season games, Bennett’s defense averaged 2.6 takeaways per contest. In its final game, a dominating 49-26 Holiday Bowl win over No. 17 UCLA, Baylor allowed just 33 yards on 28 rushing attempts and held the Bruins’ offense to 1-of-17 on third-down conversions.

In his first season in Waco, Bennett’s 2011 defense produced seven All-Big 12 performers, including second-team nose tackle Nicolas Jean-Baptiste. The Bears finished 10-3 and won the 2011 Alamo Bowl en route to a No. 12 final ranking. During a six-game winning streak to end the season, Bennett’s defense accounted for 19 takeaways.

A native of Marshall, Texas, Bennett joined Baylor’s staff in January 2011, following three seasons as defensive coordinator at Pittsburgh. In his final game at Pitt, Bennett led the Panthers as interim head coach to a victory in the 2011 BBVA Compass Bowl, a 27-10 win over Kentucky.

Pittsburgh finished 8-5 in 2010 and ranked eighth nationally in total defense under Bennett; 17th against the run and 22nd against the pass. Four members of Bennett’s defense earned 2010 All-Big East honors, including defensive end Jabaal Sheard, who was selected as the league’s Defensive Player of the Year. It marked the third consecutive year a Panther was tabbed as the Big East’s top defender.

Pitt played in bowl games all three seasons during Bennett’s tenure (2010 BBVA Compass, 2009 Meineke Car Care and 2008 Brut Sun). The Panthers’ defense ranked 23rd nationally in 2009 (319.31 ypg) and 27th nationally in Bennett’s first season in 2008 (317.2 ypg).

In 2009, Pitt led the nation in sacks (3.62 spg, 47 total) and ranked 17th in rushing defense (106.31 ypg) and 19th in scoring defense (19.77 ppg). Six members of Pitt’s defense were named to the 2009 All-Big East Team, including the Co-Defensive Players of the Year in defensive end Greg Romeus and defensive tackle Mick Williams.

Bennett joined the Panthers after serving as head coach at SMU from 2002-07. While rebuilding the program at SMU, Bennett improved the Mustangs’ win total for three straight seasons, including his 2006 team that reached bowl eligibility and achieved the program’s highest win total in a decade. That squad also received the American Football Coaches Association’s (AFCA) 2006 Academic Achievement Award after SMU earned a 100-percent graduation rate for its freshman class of 2000-01.

Prior to SMU, Bennett was the defensive coordinator and secondary coach at Kansas State for three years (1999-2001) under Bill Snyder. During his tenure, the Wildcats finished among the nation’s top five in total defense each season, including second in 1999 (235.0 ypg), fourth in 2000 (270.54) and third in 2001 (262.36).

Bennett’s secondary units were equally impressive, finishing in the top 10 in pass efficiency defense each year. The 1999 Wildcats led the entire country in pass efficiency defense with an impressive 65.7 rating. They also topped the nation in turnover margin (1.55), collecting 21 interceptions and 17 fumbles. Two of his standouts in the secondary, Dyshod Carter and Jerametrius Butler, became just the second pair of KSU teammates to record 10 or more career interceptions. Both went on to play in the NFL.

In 1998, Bennett served as secondary coach and co-recruiting coordinator at Oklahoma as he helped the Sooners finish sixth nationally in total defense. In 1997, he was the defensive coordinator at TCU and helped the Horned Frogs earn their highest defensive rankings in five years.

Bennett was the defensive coordinator at Texas A&M from 1995-96 under R.C. Slocum. American Football Quarterly named him its 1995 “Defensive Coordinator of the Year” after the Aggies ranked in the nation’s top 10 in every major defensive category, including total defense (third), scoring defense (third) and pass efficiency defense (second).

From 1991-94 Bennett coached at LSU, including his final three seasons as assistant head coach. In 1994 he was the Tigers’ defensive coordinator. That season, LSU led the Southeastern Conference in every major defensive category and finished eighth nationally in total defense. Bennett’s positional focus was the outside linebackers his first three seasons and the secondary his final year in Baton Rouge.

Prior to LSU, Bennett held defensive coordinator posts at Purdue (1987-90) and Iowa State (1984-86). In 1983 he coached linebackers at MacArthur High School in Irving, Texas and in 1982 he coached TCU’s tight ends and tackles. Bennett began his career at Texas A&M as a part-time defensive ends coach from 1979-80 before assuming a full-time position in 1981.

Bennett is a 1978 graduate of Texas A&M with a B.S. in education. He was an All-SWC defensive end for the Aggies, helping them earn invitations to the Sun, Bluebonnet and Liberty bowls during his career.

He and his wife Julie are the parents of four children, Sam (a football graduate assistant at ASU since 2016), Maddie, Katie (Baylor graduate and soccer letterwinner) and Megan.

TEMPE, Ariz. – The Tempe Sports Authority Foundation has announced the recipients of its 24th Annual Courage Awards, including two Sun Devils in head men’s tennis coach Matt Hill and football student-athlete Tim White. The Arizona Cardinals’ Patrick Peterson is the third honoree for this year.

The Courage Awards celebrate those who have shown courage and heroism in circumstances of adversity.

Two words can be used to describe the Sun Devils’ pair of honorees for this year: battle-tested and victorious.

Hill fought and defeated osteosarcoma, a common type of bone cancer, when he was just 19 years old, 16 years ago. Upon bravely winning his battle, life put into perspective, he decided to take his passion for tennis and turn it into a career and a way to help others.

Never having previously played tennis, he battled once again, this time onto the third doubles team at Ferris State University, one of a few schools in the country that offered a professional tennis management program.

From there, Hill worked his way to an assistant position at high-caliber SEC programs at Alabama and Mississippi State before earning his first head coaching opportunity at South Florida. This summer, he moved his family to Tempe to take over the reinstated Sun Devil men’s tennis team.

White’s battle came in the form of having eight brothers and sisters as part of a family that was often homeless and slept in a car or under a bridge for stretches of his youth. In his younger years, the family would go from hotels to homelessness as his parents fought for their children’s safety and wellbeing and picked up what jobs they could find. Adding to the adversity, his only brother whom he considered his “mentor” was killed four years ago.

Not joining organized sports until high school, White competed in track and field, easily posting top times with no prior experience. A natural athlete, he first played football in junior college while running track in the offseason. His triple jump at the Pan American Junior Athletics Championships in 2013 would’ve been good enough for 12th place at the 2012 Olympics.

Sun Devil Student-Athlete, Tim White

At ASU, White knew he could be successful in both track & field and football while also getting a quality education and he competes at the highest level on both teams. Most recently, he was named to the Pro Football Focus All-Pac-12 team, ranking third in the conference in punt returns and in the top-10 in punt return yards among all power-5 players this season. Academically, White also excels, tabbed Pac-12 All-Academic Honorable Mention in 2016.

A number of local charities benefit from money raised through table sales and the auction accompanying the event, with the Foundation raising over $1,000,000 to date, benefitting underprivileged children of the Tempe and surrounding communities.

The awards celebration will take place on Monday, Mar. 20, 2017 at the Tempe Mission Palms in Tempe, Ariz. A no-host cocktail reception and silent auction (6 p.m.) precede the live auction, dinner, and awards ceremony at 7 p.m.

To reserve a table for the event, visit the event website HERE and click “Reserve Your Table Today” at the top left. For more information, contact Susan Brow at (480) 940-4039.

]]><p><a rel="nofollow" href="http://dieharddevil.com/articles/38595/">Two Sun Devils To Earn Tempe Sports Authority Foundation Courage Awards</a></p>
<p>TEMPE, Ariz. – The Tempe Sports Authority Foundation has announced the recipients of its 24th Annual Courage Awards, including two Sun Devils in head men&#8217;s tennis coach Matt Hill and football student-athlete Tim White. The Arizona Cardinals&#8217; Patrick Peterson is the third honoree for this year. The Courage Awards celebrate those who have shown courage and heroism in circumstances [&#8230;]</p>
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